Why Integrate KVM Into Rackmount Drawer?

Rackmount Monitor Styles

Rackmount LCD Monitors with Keyboard and optional KVM Switch allow you to save valuable rack space by consolidating your Keyboard, Monitor and Mouse into 1 or 2 U's of rack space. With adding the optional KVM Switch you can control all the computers in your rack as well.

Rack mount LCDs allow you to attach a monitor to your rack for constant monitoring of mission-critical systems. They are easier on the eye and allow you to store items behind them. These rackmount panels are ideal for applications in which you would need to monitor the devices in your rack(s) on a frequent basis and/or access to the rack is secured.

Beyond panels, sliding rackmount monitor drawers can be purchased without keyboards or pointing devices, which allow you to have a full sized monitor that slides back into the rack for convenient space-saving storage. Available in 15" and 17" sizes that store in 1U of space, these drawers offer the functionality of being able to quickly view the display, without the need for more rack space for storage and mounitng. Both panels and drawers are available with optional touchscreen screens.

Rackmount Keyboards are optimized for racks to reduce clutter and be more efficient. With trackball included you can remove all cables coming from the keyboard and mouse for a cleaner installation.

How to Select a Rackmount Monitor

When selecting your next rackmount monitor, ask yourself the following questions:

Do I need KVM support?Many rackmount monitors include an integrated KVM to save rack space. With numerous styles available, nearly any configuration can be incorporated, including KVM-over-IP remote access.

What Type of mounting rails does my server rack have?Different server racks have different mounting rails. Modern racks have universal M6 rails for cage nuts (square holes). Older racks, with round holes, may require very specific mounting equipment. These older mounting rails are typically tapped (threaded) for either a 10-32 or 12-24 screw.

Make sure to verify the selected rackmount monitor will mount correctly in your server rack.

Also note: rackmount monitor drawers are not suited for use in 2-post relay racks.

Are there special depth requirements?Depending on your particular rack configuration, you may need a monitor drawer of a specific depth. While most drawers are built to fit standard rack depths, a subset are built for shorter depth applications.

Do I need independently sliding drawers?If monitoring at the rack, while the doors are closed is a concern, you may want to consider a dual sliding monitor drawer / keyboard combo. Dual slide drawers allow the keyboard to be stored while the monitor remains up. These dual slide units combine the visibility of a rackmounted LCD panel with the convenience of a keyboard drawer, in a single unit. While many of these drawers occupy 2U of rack space, a number of new dual slide drawers come in a compact 1U size.

Is touchscreen integration required?There are two ways to address touchscreens: actual touchscreen capable monitors (for use in kiosks, etc.), and the ability to integrate with touchscreen enabled devices. Both provide unique sets of challenges. A number of our monitor drawers and panels can have optional e-Resistive or e-Capacitive touch screen overlays added. For touchscreen enabled device options, contact your KVM Switches Online sales representative.

How to Connect Your New Rackmount Monitor

Most Rackmount Monitors, such as the Raloy RWX119, come with a 6ft combo KVM cable. Once mounted in the server rack, simply connect the DB-15 or CAT5 connection to the monitor drawer and connect the video input and the USB connector to the server.